Jessica Valderrama
1. Using a UTK Heat Mat Properly
Heat mats are one of the most important tools for providing consistent warmth. For optimal heating:
- Placement: Heat mat should cover 75% of the back wall of the tank. Ensure it's placed 1 inch above the substrate. This way helps distribute heat evenly without directly heating the substrate, which could cause uneven moisture evaporation leading to dry substrate.
- For Cold Winters: If you experience very cold winters, it’s best to use a heat mat that covers the entire length of the back wall to maintain steady warmth.
Safety Tip: Do not insulate heat mats with adhesive backing, as this could lead to a fire hazard.
2. Monitoring Humidity and Temperature
Proper monitoring ensures your hermit crabs stay stress free. Here's how:
3. Minimize Open Space in the Tank
Open spaces can make it harder to maintain a stable temperature and humidity. Follow these tips:
- Deep Substrate: Use at least 8-10 inches of substrate, or even deeper for larger or jumbo hermit crabs. The deeper the substrate, the less air there is to heat, which makes it easier to regulate the tank.
- Tank Insulation: Attach reflective insulation or car window shields (like foil bubble wrap) to the back and sides of the tank. This helps retain heat and stabilize humidity. Make sure it covers the entire back and sides for maximum efficiency.
4. Adding Supplemental Heat Mats
If your primary heat mat isn’t enough, you can add a secondary one:
- Place a small heat mat on one of the side walls, ensuring it is 1 inch above the substrate.
- For better control, choose a heat mat with an adjustable knob to control the temperature.
For Tanks with Toppers:
If your tank has a topper (an upper level), consider placing a small heat mat in the center of the topper to help push down heat. Keep in mind that the topper’s temperature doesn’t need to match the base tank’s temperature exactly.
5. Insulating the Tank from Below
If your tank sits directly on a cold surface, heat can escape through the bottom. To prevent this:
- Place a blanket, cardboard, rug, TV unit, or stand under the tank to act as insulation.
- Be cautious when lifting tanks with deep substrate, as the added weight could crack the glass.
6. Covering the Tank Overnight
Key Safety Tips
- Always monitor your tank’s temperature and humidity using properly calibrated tools.
- Avoid overheating your crabs by ensuring all heating mats are used together with a thermostat.
- Never insulate adhesive heat mats, as this poses a fire risk.
